Up close - reasons why parents attend their general practitioner when their child is sick

This study aimed to explore the reasons prompting Australian parents to seek medical advice for their sick children, and to define the factors influencing their decision. International data suggest non-clinical reasons for general practitioner (GP) visits.

Twenty-two parents from eight general practices were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire while they waited to see their GP. The interviews were tape-recorded, de-identified, transcribed and analysed thematically.

Five emergent themes were fears about possible scenarios; personal and vicarious experiences; resources and convenience; being seen to do the right thing; and reassurance and guidance about management.

Parents reported several reasons for seeking medical advice for their sick child and often a combination of factors influenced their decision, consistent with research findings from other countries. Awareness and understanding of this decision-making process could significantly improve primary care for patients in Australia and contribute to training of medical students and GP registrars.